Unraveling the Judiciary: A Deep Dive into Articles 124-147 of the Indian Constitution

The Union Judiciary holds a paramount position in the Indian constitutional framework, shaping the legal landscape and ensuring justice prevails. Articles 124-147 under Chapter IV of Part V meticulously delineate the provisions related to the Supreme Court, encapsulating its establishment, jurisdiction, and powers. Let's embark on a journey through the constitutional corridors that define the Union Judiciary.

Article 124: Establishment and Constitution of Supreme Court

The foundation of the Union Judiciary is laid out in Article 124. It establishes the Supreme Court of India, comprising a Chief Justice and, until further legislative provisions, not more than seven other Judges. The appointment of Judges is vested in the President, after consultation with relevant judicial authorities. The intricate criteria for a person to qualify as a Supreme Court Judge, the process of appointment, and the safeguards against removal are enshrined in this article.

Article 125: Salaries, etc., of Judges

Article 125 outlines the financial aspects of the Judges' role, including salaries, privileges, allowances, and rights. It ensures that the financial conditions agreed upon at the time of appointment remain unaltered to the detriment of the Judge.

Article 126: Appointment of Acting Chief Justice

In situations where the Chief Justice is unable to perform duties, Article 126 empowers the President to appoint an acting Chief Justice, ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of the Supreme Court.

Article 127: Appointment of Ad Hoc Judges

The provision for appointing ad hoc Judges when there's a lack of quorum reflects the pragmatic approach of the Constitution. This ensures the continued operation of the Supreme Court even in challenging circumstances.

Article 128: Attendance of Retired Judges

Article 128 allows the Chief Justice of India to request retired Judges to act in the Supreme Court, emphasizing the wealth of experience they bring. However, this act is voluntary and requires the retired Judge's consent.

Article 129: Supreme Court to be a Court of Record

Establishing the Supreme Court as a court of record empowers it with the authority to punish for contempt, safeguarding its dignity and upholding the rule of law.

Article 130: Seat of Supreme Court

The flexibility in choosing the seat of the Supreme Court, as outlined in Article 130, allows the Chief Justice, with the President's approval, to determine its location, ensuring accessibility and convenience.

Article 131: Original Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

Article 131 vests the Supreme Court with exclusive original jurisdiction in specific disputes involving the Government of India and the States. However, it explicitly excludes disputes arising from certain pre-existing agreements.

Article 132-134: Appellate Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

These articles define the appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, covering civil, criminal, and constitutional matters. The certification process by High Courts and the grounds for appeal are meticulously laid out.

Article 135: Jurisdiction and Powers of the Federal Court under Existing Law

Article 135 ensures that the Supreme Court retains jurisdiction and powers held by the Federal Court under existing law in matters not covered by Article 133 or Article 134.

Article 136: Special Leave to Appeal by the Supreme Court

Granting special leave to appeal, Article 136 provides the Supreme Court with discretionary power to review judgments, ensuring justice in exceptional cases.

Article 137: Review of Judgments or Orders

Subject to parliamentary or rule-based provisions, Article 137 empowers the Supreme Court to review its judgments, maintaining a mechanism for rectifying errors.

Article 138-139: Enlargement of Jurisdiction and Conferment of Powers

Articles 138 and 139 confer additional jurisdiction and powers on the Supreme Court. Parliament and the Government of India, in agreement with State governments, can expand the scope of the Supreme Court's authority.

Article 140-142: Ancillary Powers and Enforcement of Decrees

These articles empower the Supreme Court with ancillary powers and mechanisms for enforcing its decrees and orders, ensuring the efficacy of its decisions.

Article 143: Power of President to Consult Supreme Court

Article 143 enables the President to seek the Supreme Court's opinion on matters of public importance, highlighting the Court's role as a constitutional advisor.

Article 144-147: Civil Authorities, Rules of Court, and Interpretation

These articles mandate civil authorities to aid the Supreme Court, empower the Court to establish rules, and provide for the interpretation of constitutional matters.

In a broader context, the Supreme Court, as the apex judicial body, plays a pivotal role in upholding the Constitution's principles and ensuring justice prevails. The intricate provisions detailed in Articles 124-147 serve as the bedrock of the Union Judiciary, reflecting the framers' foresight in creating a robust and accountable legal system.

The Union Judiciary, with the Supreme Court at its helm, stands as a beacon of justice, interpreting the law and safeguarding the constitutional fabric of India.